On Monday, September 16th, 2024, Sierra Leone, through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), joined the global community in celebrating World Ozone Day under the theme "Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Action."

World Ozone Day is dedicated to phasing out ozone-depleting substances, aiding in the recovery of the ozone layer, and protecting all life on Earth, while reaffirming commitment to the Montreal Protocol.

This year, the celebrations in Bo included various activities, such as a friendly football match between the EPA and the Refrigeration Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA) at Bo Coronation Field.

The events also featured a cycling race around Bo City to raise awareness about reducing emissions to preserve the ozone layer. During the race, participants conducted public outreach about substances harmful to the ozone.

In addition, EPA School Nature Clubs in Bo District performed a melodrama, showcasing students’ knowledge about ozone, promoting environmental awareness from a young age.

Key speeches from stakeholders, led by Chief Director Sheku Mark Kanneh, emphasized Sierra Leone's commitment to implementing the Montreal Protocol through the EPA. With support from UNIDO, the EPA has provided training for technicians on safe refrigeration practices, certified them, and established centers of excellence in Freetown and other regions.

Deputy Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, Madam Mimi Sobba-Stevens, awarded plaques to RETA and EPA staff who demonstrated outstanding dedication to protecting the ozone layer.

The event concluded with the distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and toolkits to two technicians from each district to enhance their capacity in safe refrigeration practices.

Since September 16, 1987, the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer has raised awareness about the Montreal Protocol, one of the most successful environmental agreements.